Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec. 10: The Andaman Nicobar Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ANCCI) has officially announced the 10th edition of the Andaman Marathon, scheduled to be held on February 8, 2026. The event will begin with a grand flag-off at 5:15 am from the National Memorial Cellular Jail and conclude with the prize distribution ceremony at Netaji Stadium at 7:30 am. Celebrating a decade of the marathon’s legacy, this year’s edition carries the theme “Run for Nature,” promoting fitness, environmental awareness, and a clean lifestyle among islanders.
Addressing the media, ANCCI President Dr. K. Chandra Sekharan said the 2026 edition marks a major comeback after the Covid years, symbolising renewed energy and a fresh beginning for the sporting culture of the islands. He highlighted that the marathon, now widely recognised across India, is expected to draw more than 2,000 runners from different parts of the country, alongside large-scale participation from local residents.
During the press conference, Dr. Sekharan emphasised the strong partnership between ANCCI and the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. The Directorates of Sports, Health, Electricity, Shipping Services, PBMC, Police, and other departments will be working together to ensure uninterrupted arrangements, early-morning logistics, safety planning, and route management. He added that the marathon not only boosts fitness and community spirit but also promotes the islands as a global tourism destination.
Later, giving a detailed briefing, Half Marathon Committee Chairman Mohd. Jadwet presented the official logo for the 10th anniversary edition and shared insights into the event’s expanded scale. He said the marathon could not be conducted for a few years due to the pandemic, and resuming it now marks “a new beginning for all of us.” He thanked TCI, the title sponsor, along with SBI and other associate sponsors, for extending full support.
Mr. Jadwet also confirmed that actor and philanthropist Rahul Bose—associated with the event since its inception—will once again serve as the brand ambassador. He noted that Bose has participated in several past marathons and continues to promote the event nationally. He further announced two prominent island-born sportspersons as local brand ambassadors: world-ranked cyclist Esow Alben and acclaimed kayaking champion Rajina Kiro, both of whom will attend the flag-off ceremony as celebrity guests.
Explaining the race categories, Jadwet said the marathon will feature the Half Marathon (21 km), 10K Open, 10K Seniors, 10K Boys & Girls (Islanders only), and 2K Boys & Girls (Islanders only). Prize money worth ₹10,05,000 has been allocated exclusively for Indian nationals and islanders, with equal prizes for men and women across all categories. A non-competitive 1.5-km Run for Fun will also be organised from Cellular Jail to Netaji Stadium, open to participants of all ages without registration fees.
Mr. Jadwet highlighted that registrations are being conducted fully online through the official marathon portal, in line with modern practices and administrative convenience. He stated that the registration fee will remain unchanged from 2020 to encourage wider public participation. He also informed that an advanced electronic bib system will be used for professional timing, and all runners will receive a branded t-shirt, bib, medal, and official photographs uploaded by the timing agency.
He added that the next 10 days will witness extensive publicity throughout the islands—including schools, colleges, tehsils, and districts—to ensure maximum awareness and participation. ANCCI aims to make this year’s marathon visible not only across the country but also on international running platforms.
Concluding the briefing, Dr. Sekharan urged residents of Sri Vijaya Puram and all islanders to support and participate in the marathon, expressing confidence that the 2026 edition will set new benchmarks in organisation, participation, and public enthusiasm.
